M.P. Baker Library to host Lunch Box Lecture exploring U.S. Constitution on September 17

The M.P. Baker Library at Panola College will host the first Lunch Box Lecture of the fall semester on Thursday, September 17, from noon to 1 p.m. in the Murphy Payne Room. The event, which will be held on Constitution Day, will explore the U.S. Constitution through a debate panel examining which aspects of the document have contributed most to the nation’s longevity.

“We’re excited to begin the semester’s Lunch Box Lecture series with a conversation that encourages our community to think more deeply about the Constitution and its lasting impact,” said Penni Ratley, Director of Library Services at Panola College. “With four different perspectives represented, we hope the discussion will be both engaging and thought-provoking for everyone who attends.”

The panel will feature Panola College professors of history and government Brian Naples, Carlton Jordan, Marcus Armstrong, and Bill Offer, who will each have eight minutes to present their argument. Following the presentations, the discussion will open to the audience, giving attendees an opportunity to consider the different perspectives and decide which argument they find most convincing.

The Lunch Box Lecture is free and open to the public. A complimentary nacho bar will be provided for attendees. 

Guests are also encouraged to visit the Fay Allison Gallery inside the M.P. Baker Library to view Declaration 1776: The Big Bang of Modern Democracy, an exhibition developed by the Gilder Lehrman Institute of American History.

For more information about the Lunch Box Lecture, exhibit viewing hours, or to schedule group visits, contact Penni Ratley, Director of Library Services, at penni.ratley@panola.edu.